waves were minimal. Based upon these measurements, it was estimated 

 that the FTB could tow the TSB at a speed of approximately 5.2 knots 

 under negligible winds, waves, and currents. 



Connecting and Disconnecting Sections of Boom 



The FTB could also be used to connect and disconnect sections of 

 boom. This was accomplished by first standing on the work platform, 

 bending to pick up the boom connection, and bringing it over the FTB 

 rollers. Then, it took two men less than 15 seconds each to complete 

 connect and disconnect operations in calm water conditions. A third 

 man was required at the FTB controls. A pair of pliers and adjustable 

 vice grips are required tools to disconnect the boom sections. 



Handling and Storage of the Flattop Boat 



Handling : The procedures for unfolding the FTB on land prior to 

 deployment and for folding it prior to transportation are described in 

 detail in Appendix C. The FTB purchased for these tests weighed 

 5,240 lb whereas the trailer weighed 2,200 lb. The combined weight 

 of 7,440 lb is easily transportable on land by a truck capable of 

 pulling approximately 8,000 lb on a highway. No special permit is 

 required for land transportation of the FTB in the folded position. 

 Other handling details are given in Appendix C. 



Storage: Because the deployment and the retrieval of the folding 

 FTB is carried out over a ramp, requires no tools, and takes only 

 a few minutes, it appears best to store the FTB on land. Also, 

 possible damage to the FTB in water under adverse weather conditions, 

 mooring requirements, and effect of seawater upon the FTB components 

 suggest that storage on land would be superior to storage on water. If 

 the FTB is stored on land, no special protective equipment is felt 

 necessary; a thorough wash with fresh water after each use should 

 be adequate . 



No special tests were devised to determine if (a) the means of 

 attaching the working surface of the FTB to the pontoon are structurally 

 adequate, (b) the strength of the working surface of the FTB is 

 adequate, and (c) the working surface is sufficiently dent-resistant. 

 However, the test program did not uncover any obvious design problems. 



Observations, Comments, and Suggestions 



A number of design changes were suggested by the manufacturer prior 

 to the start of the test program. The need for improvements in these 

 areas became readily apparent during the test program. The following 

 suggestions and observations made by the crew also incorporate 

 suggestions made by the manufacturer. 



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